Governor Spencer Cox Addresses the 2034 Winter Games Steering Committee
On September 24, 2025, Governor Spencer Cox gathered with key stakeholders at The Little America Hotel in Salt Lake City, addressing the newly formed steering committee dedicated to organizing the 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. This assembly marked a pivotal moment—both for the state and for the impending event, as it represented the first in-person meeting of the group focused on making the upcoming games a multifaceted success.
Embracing Challenges
Gov. Cox opened his remarks with a candid acknowledgment of recent upheavals the state had faced. “It’s been a rough couple of weeks for our state,” he revealed, referencing the ongoing discussions surrounding political climate and community unrest. He emphasized the perception that many might have about Utah, noting that “being an Olympic host may be the one thing that they do know.” This highlights the transformative power events like the Olympics can have in reshaping state and national identities, particularly during challenging times.
Shared Gratitude and Resilience
Cox recounted a poignant encounter while attending a discussion at the University of Notre Dame, where an alumnus from New York expressed his appreciation for how Utah handled recent events. “The world needs Utah right now,” the alumnus said. This sentiment resonates deeply with Gov. Cox’s vision for the 2034 Games as not only a showcase of athletic talent but a unifying force that can elevate the community spirit during trying times.
In his address to the gathering of community leaders, he underscored the resilience of Utahns, asserting, “We are better than the worst among us,” and emphasized that the state would be ready to showcase its strengths when the world converges in 2034. The governor expressed confidence that with the contributions of the steering committee and the citizens of Utah, the upcoming Olympics would set a new standard for excellence.
An Optimistic Outlook
Fraser Bullock, president and executive chair of the organizing committee, articulated a shared optimism during the meeting, reinforcing Cox’s remarks about the potential positive impact of the 2034 Games. Bullock stated that “the Games have the power to bring people together,” aiming to deliver a sense of hope and collaboration amidst the complexities many face today.
Additionally, Mayor Erin Mendenhall of Salt Lake City chimed in, affirming that the Olympics present a rare opportunity to forge unity amid national discourse. “Whatever disagreements we have matter not in the face of what we’re doing here together,” she said, reflecting a spirit of cooperation that could transcend political divides and draw people closer.
Preparing for the Future
As discussions progressed during the meeting, the importance of addressing broader societal issues alongside infrastructure and logistics for the Games emerged as a crucial theme. Leaders recognized the necessity to leverage this unique platform to address mental health, housing, and other pressing concerns within the community.
David Huntsman, CEO of the Huntsman Family Foundation, voiced the urgent need to turn Olympic preparations into a legacy of meaningful change. He explained, “We need to be using every opportunity between now and then to be implementing those changes,” with a particular focus on mental health. The foundation had previously pledged $150 million to the Huntsman Mental Health Institute, reinforcing their commitment to this mission.
Celebrating Progress
In a positive announcement, Brad Wilson, CEO of the 2034 Games, shared that a celebration would be staged on November 24 to mark 3,000 days until the official opening of the Games, with festivities planned at the University of Utah’s Rice-Eccles Stadium. This event is not only a countdown to the games but also an opportunity to galvanize community support and excitement.
Currently, the organizing committee employs eight individuals, with plans to expand to a workforce of approximately 50,000, consisting of employees, volunteers, and contractors, by the time the Games commence. This workforce will play a critical role in ensuring the event runs smoothly, showcasing the spirit and capability of Utahns to the world.
A Collective Vision
With the steering committee and community leaders at the helm, Utah aims not only to host the 2034 Olympics but to redefine its narrative through collaboration and inclusivity. The consensus is that the Games will be a catalyst for addressing local challenges, influencing lives, and reinforcing the idea that, during difficult times, there is much the world can learn from Utah’s resilience and unity.
By prioritizing legacy-building initiatives and the well-being of its residents, Utah is poised to present not just a spectacular athletic event but also a monumental message of hope and renewal.
